/^w^-C / / 



/ v c 







CEREMONIES 



VJ 



ON OCCASION OF THE 



PRESENTATION OF THE SWORDS, 



VOTED 






MAJOR GENERAL JOHN E. WOOL, 3 



W 



I THE COMMON COUNCIL OF THE CITY OF TROY, 7 

t 
THE LEGISLATURE OF NEW YORK, 



THE CONGRESS OF THE UNITED STATES. 



4 



I 



COMPILED BY 

RICHARD ARNOLD, 

1st Lieut. 3rd Art. A. D. C. to Gen. Wool. 







:> 



TROY, X. Y. : 

A. W.SCRIBXER AND CO., PRINTERS, CANNON PLACE. 
1860. 



m 






CEKEMONIES 



ON OCCASION OF THE 



PRESENTATION OF THE SWORDS, 



VOTED 

MAJOR GENERAL JOHN E. WOOL, 

BY 

THE COMMON COUNCIL OF THE CITY OF TROY, 
THE LEGISLATURE OF NEW YORK, 

AND 

THE CONGRESS OF THE UNITED STATES. 



COMPILED BY 

EICHAED AENOLD, 

1st Lieut. 3rd Art. A. D. C. to Gen. Wool. 



TROY, N. Y. : 

4 H . SCRIBNER AND CO., PRINTERS, CANNON PLACE. 

1860. 



l 



TO 

Mrs. JOHN E. WOOL. 

Madam : 

To comply with your expressed wish, to have 
a complete description of the Swords presented General 
Wool, I have compiled the following pages, adding, as I 
could not doubt it would prove valuable and interesting, 
a full account of the ceremonies of their presentation, 
which I have the honor of dedicating to yourself. 

With the sincere hope that my humble endeavors may 
meet with your approbation. 

I am, 
With sentiments of the highest esteem and regard, 
Your most obedient and much obliged servant, 
Eichard Arnold, 

1st Lieut. 3rd Art., 

Aide-de-Camp. 
Troy, N. Y., 

June 1st, 1860. 



CITY SWORD. 



Preamble and Resolutions, which were unanimous- 
ly ADOPTED BY THE COMMON COUNCIL OF THE 

City of Troy, K Y., April 8, 1848. 



Whereas, the Common Council of the city of Troy, have 
(in common with their fellow citizens,) had the great 
gratification of hearing from all quarters, of the courage 
and gallant bearing of our townsman, Brigadier General 
JOHN B. WOOL, during the hard-fought and nobly- 
won field of Buena VlSTA — 

Therefore, Resolved, That General Wool has fully justi- 
fied and sustained the high opinion always entertained 
among us, of his character as an accomplished soldier ; 
and that his courage and conduct at Buena Yista, amply 
fulfill the bright promise of his first feat of arms, at 
Queenstown. 

Resolved, That, feeling a just pride in his renown, and 
desiring to testify our high regard for both the citizen and 
the soldier; we, in the name of the City of Troy, pre- 
sent to him a Sword, as a testimonial of the place he 
occupies in the esteem of those who have known him so 
long and so well ; and as a memorial, (though not a 
reward,) of the distinguished services he has rendered to 
the country. 

Resolved, That a committee of four persons be appoint- 
ed by the Mayor, two from the Common Council, and two 
from the citizens generally, to carry into effect the forego- 
ing resolution. 



6 

Civic and Military Ceremonies of the Presentation 
in the City of Troy, August 23, 1848. 

At an early hour yesterday, the streets were thronged 
with people from the country, and with our own citizens, 
all animated in view of the grand pageant of the day. 

The morning cars brought in the following Military 
Companies from abroad: 

Albany Republican Artillery, . . Capt. Fredendall. 

Albany Washington Rifles, ... " Triegler. 

New York City Guards, .... " McArdle. 

Syracuse Citizens' Corps, .... " Minard. 

Utica Citizens' Corps, " Hart. 

Saratoga Artillery, " PlunJcett. 

Schenectady Artillery, .... " Springer, 

who were received and escorted to their various quarters 
at our hotels, by the Troy Citizens' Corps, Capt. Pierce, 
and Troy City Artillery, Capt. Brlntxall, where ar- 
rangements had been made for their entertainment. 

The various companies appeared in fine spirits and 
beautiful uniforms. Among the Bands were 

Kellogg's Brass Band, Syracuse. 

Cook's Brass Band, Albany. 

Aricott's Brass Band, ....... Utica. 

Schenectady Brass Band 

U. S. Arsenal Band, West Troy. 

U. States' Band, Governor's Island. 

Forrester's Brass Band, Lansinglurgh. 

Among the military of rank and distinction present, 
were, of the Staff of Gen. Wool, Adj. Gen. Winship, 
and aides McLean and Totten. 

The Governor's Staff: Adj. Gen. Stevens, Col. Van 
Vechten and Col. Carman, of Albany ; Gen. Storms, of 
New York, and Staff; Major Bogart, Maj. Mumford, and 
Morgan ; 

Major Baker and Staff from the Arsenal ; 

Major Gen. Cooper and Staff from Albany. 



And Hon. Millard Fillmore, and Hon. C. Morgan, of 
the State Department. 

Long before the hour for the review of the military at 
the residence of Gen. Wool, thousands of citizens and 
strangers had crowded around his residence, entirely 
filling the streets on every side, all anxious to obtain a 
view of him. Hundreds of his old and personal friends 
rushed into his house to congratulate him upon his return 
and to welcome him home. Here the scene was truly 
interesting, showing as it did the warm friendship and 
sincere regard of gentlemen from various parts of the 
country, whose acquaintance had extended through many 
years, and had been strengthened by the many evidences 
of personal worth those years had furnished. It was a 
meeting of pure and noble hearts. 

The General appeared to be in good health, with the 
exception of a slight cold, and with his intelligent and 
amiable lady, were assiduous in their attentions to the 
numerous friends who called upon him. 

At eleven o'clock the military and citizens appeared at 
the residence of General Wool, where he was addressed 
by General J. J. Yiele, as follows, followed by immense 
cheering : 

GEN. VIELE'S ADDRESS. 

Maj. Gen. Wool : Permit me, sir, in behalf of the 
Military here assembled, representing the Citizen Soldiery 
of the Empire State, to congratulate and welcome you, 
on your safe return. Since you parted with us last, you 
have passed through scenes of trial, of arduous duty, and 
imminent danger. We have watched your course with 
almost agonizing interest. Yet we felt confidently as- 
sured, from your early history and former services, thai 
in your hands the interests and honor of your Country 
would be secure. The ardor and enthusiasm with which 
you rallied at the call of your Country, during the second 
war of Independence — the heroic courage, the manly for- 
titude and matured judgment, displayed by the then 



youthful Officer of the line — was an earnest of what we 
expected, and have realized, from the veteran Comman- 
der. The heights of Queenstown and the plains of Beek- 
mantown are your earlier jewels. The bloody Saranac 
will never cease to murmur your praises. Your recent 
services in a distant country, incurring the dangers of 
pestilence and sword — your indefatigable exertions in mus- 
tering a large army, and transforming them so rapidly, 
from raw recruits to disciplined soldiers — the expedition 
with which you performed a long and tedious march 
through a hostile wilderness ivorld, — calls for our marked 
approbation. But that which, above all else, challenges 
our fondest admiration, and is your crowning glory, is 
3 r our conduct on the proud field of Buena Vista ! 

Although you return to us war-worn and fatigued, and 
your brow has become brown, your locks gray, yet the 
laurels which surround and adorn them will be green 
when all else fades and crumbles. You have erected a 
monument to your own fame, which shall last while 
virtue is rewarded and patriotism has a friend. 

For these distinguished services, we greet you with this 
military compliment. We have here with us, the repre- 
sentatives of the Empire City and of western New York ; 
united we offer you the humble tribute of our grateful 
hearts. Your history, services, and success, prove to us 
that there is security for our Country, and protection for 
our rights, in the intelligence and patriotism of a Citizen 
Soldiery. They are additional evidences that Military 
Genius depends not entirely upon the schools. Like 
poetry, painting, and sculpture, it is the endowment of 
Nature — it is the gift of God. 

In conclusion, for time will not permit me to go into 
detail, allow me, again to bid you welcome, thrice wel- 
come, " war's conquering Hero, home ! " 

To this address the General made the following briei 
and pertinent reply : 



9 

OEN. WOOL'S REPLY. 

But yesterday, I was amidst the enemies of my country ; 
to-day, I am surrounded by the friends of my j r outh and 
and the associations of many happy years. To the soldier 
who has devoted his whole life to his duty, no reward can 
equal the sympathy of friends. 

The noble manner in which I have been sustained by 
my native State, and particularly by the citizens of Troy, 
has filled me with the deepest emotion ; so much so, that I 
feel utterly incapable of expressing the dictates of a grate- 
ful heart. 

Eeceive my thanks, sir, for the flattering manner in 
which you have alluded to my services in the last war, 
and in that which has just closed. Whatever I was for- 
tunate enough to perform in the former, now belongs to 
the history of the past, — in the latter, it has been my good 
fortune to be associated with one of its most extraordinary 
battles. I see, sir, in the citizen-soldiery here present, the 
same kind of force that gained the day in that unequal 
struggle. The volunteers on that field sustained the glory 
of their country in one of its darkest hours; and finally, 
though attacked by forces so far superior that to resist was 
thought madness by some, after the most heroic sacrifices, 
gained a victory unsurpassed by any of the war. The 
battle of Buena Vista must teach our country that its 
strength lies in her sons ; that in the hour of danger 
the citizen-soldier is able and willing to face the enemy 
either on our own soil, or in a foreign land ; and that its 
honor and glory can be entrusted implicitly to his care. 

After the military were reviewed by General Wool, 
amidst the most enthusiastic cheers,from the vast concourse 
assembled ; the escort was formed in front of the Court 
House, and took up its inarch down Second street to 
Division street, up Division to First, up First to the 
quarters of General Wool, where he was received into 
the line. 

2 



10 

The procession then proceeded through the principal 
streets to the Court House, where the committee of one 
hundred citizens, and the Common Council, received the 
General at the hands of the joint committee, with im- 
mense cheers from the warm hearts of at least 40,000 
people ! 

As soon as the companies could be arranged, the Gene- 
ral was conducted to his stand on a platform erected for 
the purpose in front of the Court House, and he was then 
addressed by George Gould, Esq., in behalf of the citi- 
zens of Troy, as follows : 

me. gould's address. 
Sir : You are once more among your fellow citizens ; 
and they who have known you long and well, are throng- 
ing to welcome you. Yet for the public expression of 
that welcome they can have but one voice ; and I am 
honored in being selected to give it utterance: — a task as 
difficult as it is honorable ; for 

" Silence, is the perfectest herald of joy." 

The manner in which one is, and should be greeted, on 
his return, depends upon many circumstances ; — the length 
of his absence ; the distance of his place of sojourn ; his 
employment while away ; the security, or the danger, that 
was about his path. And when time has been lengthen- 
ed, and distance increased ; and deeds have been noted, 
and dangers have been rife ; then the return is anxiously 
looked for; the greeting is eager and warm; and the grasp 
of the hand is, as if it would retain, what had been well 
nigh lost ; — and yet is not lost, but ivith us. 

In this view, whose return more than yours, deserves 
from us a reception as public as it is exulting ? The call 
to duty did not find you sleeping ; and the promptness 
with which the summons to arms was answered, would, 
in most men, have been remarkable. And vet the nature 
of your employment would seem to have been, to a tried 
soldier, the most irksome, as it surely was the most thank- 



11 

less. You were called, not to the field, where "the 
shouts of battle and the shock of arms," give to war its 
splendor, and to man his fame ; but to the bare hill-side, 
which you were to make a camp ; to the raw volunteers, — 
unclothed, unprovided for, untaught, — whom you were to 
transform into soldiers. And not merely this ; but those 
volunteers bred in a freedom that had hardly heard of 
law, ignorant of all discipline, chafing at restraint, im- 
patient of control Further; they were to be trained, as 
they marched on to their destination ; and every day added 
to the numbers of the motley band, and increased your 
labors. 

The difficulties of such a march, within our own ter- 
ritory, were sufficiently arduous. But when the frontier 
was reached, the path of duty was still onward ; and still 
on, and on, the wilderness stretched its weary way ; and 
beyond it lay the hostile country, and the foe. Kare are 
the instances, (if, indeed, there be any,) of such a march as 
yours ; conducted with order, with dispatch, and above all, 
absolutely without loss. Nor is this all : at its termination, 
the forces, (at starting so ill-appointed and untamed,) came 
forth a well regulated army, ready and able to stand the 
fiery brunt of battle with the courage and conduct of 
veterans. The system and the discipline that had been 
traduced, that had been met by disaffection, and almost 
mutiny, were tried in the hour of peril, and were not found 
wanting. 

Well was it for your fame, that the counsels which 
would have overruled you, and caused a retreat to Mon- 
terey, were themselves overruled, and your head-quarters 
were fixed at Agua Nueva. But for that, though our 
confidence would have been undiminished, the world 
would have failed to do you justice; and a reluctant 
Government might not have been compelled to give to 
distinguished services, their late reward. 

Prior to this period, though everything you attempted 
had been done, and done well ; though your administra- 



12 

tive course was so admirable that you kept the inhabitants 
of a hostile country your friends, while they feared the 
army of their countrymen — yet fortune had thrown in 
your way no opportunity for any of those splendid achieve- 
ments which take possession of the public mind, by 
storm. And the mass of the people never know, or think, 
of the every day generalship that is required to keep a 
large force together, and maintain them in a sound, 
serviceable condition, so that the time of action finds them, 
in all things prepared, and with nothing to prevent their 
using then' strength and courage to the best advantage. 
In a late history of Nelson's wonderful career, it has been 
said, (while speaking of the training and disciplining of 
his crew,) "It is the secret mechanism of that silent and 
gradual work, which we must investigate ; for we must 
study Nelson organizing his fleet, ere we can understand 
his righting with such successful rashness. We must 
examine the means, before we can comprehend the end ;" 
— adding, that his personal attention to every minute detail 
was what made his whole so perfect. Such were the 
means that triumphed at the Nile, and at Trafalgar; and 
where is the victory that has been won without them ? If 
the world's great Admiral found his fame from having 
used these means, where is the hero that would not gladly 
be honored for the same cause ? 

And such claim to honor you have. The materials out 
of which a great proportion of the conquerors at Buena 
Vista were formed, came to your hands in a state almost 
of chaos ; and by your hourly, constant care, were fitted 
for the horrors, the struggles, and the result of that bloody 
field. But not this, only, is your due. The selection of 
the battle ground, — this, " new Thermopylae " was yours. 
Advanced beyond it to the edge of the desert — that your 
ear might be first to catch the sound of the coming war — 
that the foe might have brief resting space from his toil- 
some march — }'ou w T aited the approach of an enemy, 
whose numbers and appointments lost nothing in the 



13 

rumors that reached you. Well might the proudest and 
best army that Mexico ever sent forth, think that the 
small band which, at first, retreated from them, was panic- 
stricken, and needed but to be pursued, to be swallowed 
up; and more assured than ever, they poured on to the 
pass — but to find that 

" The man, that once did sell the lion's skin 

While the beast lived, was killed with hunting him." — 

At the appointed spot the retreat was stayed. The 
time and the place had come, to 

" Stiffen the sinews, summon up the blood ; — 
To set the teeth, and stretch the nostril wide, 
Hold hai'd the breath, and bend up every spirit. 
To his full height." 

If anything but such an occasion had been needed, to 
Americans it was supplied by the day. It was the 22d 
day of February .' — The watch-word was, " The Memory 
of Washington." Here, it was pledged, standing, un- 
covered, and in silence: — -There, amid the cannon's 
thunder it was pledged to the brim, in blood. It is need- 
less here to recount the varying fortunes of those two 
eventful days, or the part you, personally, bore in them 
all. The}^ are written in our annals, in characters not to 
be effaced. Outnumbered, hemmed in, almost ridden 
down, our men could not be beaten. Hour by hour their 
numbers lessened ; but the remnant, bleeding and torn as 
they were, had no thought of flight. And when the 
enemy at last recoiled ; and at night fled, defeated, dis- 
organized, disbanded, the victors were too few to gather 
the spoil, much too few to think of effective pursuit. 
Yet, for thai foe, the war was ended. 

The world has chronicled no field better fought. And 
they who won it, (as well the survivors, as they for whom 
there is no return) need no more of martial renown. 

God grant, that henceforth, forever, America see no 
more of war, — the bloodiest, fiercest, saddest tragedy the 
world ever sees. Yet if it must come, we could desire for 
it no prouder record than that of Buena Yista. 



14 

Of your peril we were not ignorant: Rumor magnified 
its approach, foretold your destruction ; and finally said, 
that destruction had come. We hoped for, — yes, we 
believed we should hear, — a different tale ; and were not 
unprepared to join in the exulting shout sent up by the 
land, when the "earthquake voice of victory" reached our 
ears. 

Since then, we have been waiting for this day. Others 
have returned, to tell their stories, " and show how fields 
were won ;" but your high responsibilities have kept you 
away. And, now, you are come, only when the general's 
last duty has been fully done : Your troops have been 
embarked ; — have reached their own shores ; have been 
disbanded ; and at length you are here. 

Guided by a merciful Providence, through thousands of 
miles, you have been, for two years, exposed to every 
vicissitude of season and of climate ; to " the pestilence 
that walketh in darkness, and the destruction that wasteth 
at noon-day ;" and in, and through all ; — in the tent, and 
in the field ; — from mountain to shore ; — you have been 
protected : And you are at home. 

What more shall I say ? That we are here, says all ; 
and, better than I can, tells how truly you are welcome. 

Mr. Gould was frequently interrupted by heartfelt 
cheers from the assembled people, and the glistening tears 
in the eyes of the gallant General evinced the deep 
emotion of his brave heart, while listening to the high 
eulogiums it bestowed. 

The Hon. Francis N. Mann, Mayor, then came upon 
the stand and addressed the General as follows : 

THE MAYOR'S ADDRESS. 

Major General Wool: — The circumstances under 
which we meet are peculiar and awaken a lively interest. 
More than two years have passed away, since we have 
enjoyed the pleasure of greeting you as our friend and 
neighbor. 



15 

In the meantime what stirring scenes, what interesting 
incidents, what severe trials have you passed through. 
Death, unconquerable death, has dealt destruction and 
piled up its trophies around you, and many, very many 
gallant spirits, who commenced the campaign with hopes 
as bright, and prospects as fair as any that have survived 
it, have gone to their eternal home. 

It would be strange indeed, if, when meeting under 
such circumstances, possessing as they do, so many and 
such thrilling incidents, we should not express what we 
cannot but feel, our sincere gratitude, to a kind and bene" 
ficent Providence, for his goodness and mercy in protect- 
ing your valuable life from the dangers incident to an in- 
hospitable and infectious climate and a cruel war, and res- 
toring you in safety to the bosom of your anxious family 
and the embrace of your friends. 

We are indeed grateful for the privilege that we now 
enjoy, of greeting your safe arrival to your home, the 
city of your adoption. And, be assured, General, that we 
have at all times, since you last left us, felt a lively 
interest, an anxious solicitude for your health and safety, 
and have ever (in our minds) participated in all your 
marches and battles, as well as in the brilliant success that 
has so signally crowned your efforts. 

You have, by your skill and valiant conduct, during 
two wars, embracing a period of more than thirty years, 
entwined your brow with the unfading laurels of a truly 
noble and distinguished soldier ; and whether in peace or in 
war, at home or abroad, promptness, energy and persever- 
ence, have ever characterized and distinguished your 
conduct. 

In the summer of 1846, with only a few hours notice, 
you obeyed your country's call, and clad in its armour, 
marched under the stripes and stars to the field of duty. 
From that time to the present, you have unceasingly 
devoted your time and talents to the service of your 
country. 



16 

Within six weeks after you were ordered on this duty, 
12,000 volunteers, armed and equipped, were mustered 
into service, under your command, and were on their way 
to Mexico. Nine thousand of whom, arrived at Mata- 
moras in time to join Gen. Taylor's army, before he 
moved on Monterey. 

In December following, your invincible army, consist- 
ing of about 3,000 volunteers, encamped in front of 
Parras, a town containing 9,000 inhabitants. Thus, after 
a march of more than 800 miles from La Yaca, in an 
enemy's country; encountering streams, mountains, and 
other formidable obstacles, incident to a new and com- 
paratively unknown region, you arrived at Parras without 
accident or injury, and without meeting an enem) r to 
interrupt your valorous troops in their progress. During 
all this protracted and severe march the strictest order 
and discipline were observed — and your camp was a 
school of instruction and practice. Thus in the short 
space of a few months, raw recruits from the plough and 
counter, were made veteran troops, cool, brave, and invin- 
cible in battle, and not surpassed even, by those of the 
regular army. 

Though in an enemy's country,/m rights were respected, 
and an equivalent paid for all your supplies. The morals 
of your army were preserved by exacting and doing 
justice by all, and your enemies were conquered and 
made friends, by your justice, clemency and humanity. And 
be assured, General, that such a victory, is more honorable to 
the victor, than the most brilliant blood-bought battles, fowj/d 
in Mexico. 

While at Parras you were notified of the advance of the 
enemy upon Saltillo, your column was again in motion, 
and marched 120 miles in less than four daj's, making 
your entire march in Mexico, from La Yaca to Saltillo, 
1000 miles. 

The enemy did indeed advance, with an army exceed- 
ing 20,000 of his most experienced and best drilled troops) 



17 

commanded by their ablest generals. Opposed to this 
formidable force was our army numbering less than 5,000. 

We have not time to refer even, to the leading incidents 
of the memorable battle of Buena Vista. And indeed it 
is unnecessary, as they are so recent, fresh and familiar to* 
us all. But how can we do justice to the intrepidity of 
the American Army on that occasion, in which you and 
your command acted such a distinguished part? The 
stirring events of that protracted and severe battle, will 
ever claim a bright page in our country's history, and the 
memories of those brave men, who there died in the 
service of their country, as well as those that survived 
that terrible conflict, will never be forgotten. 

To you belongs the signal honor, of selecting the battle 
field, and disposing the troops, in order of battle. To 
you also, belongs the honor of disciplining and instructing 
them, in the art of war, preparatory to the conflict. And 
during that eventful battle, none were more vigilant,active 
and gallant. Oh, who can realize the thrilling anxiety 
which at that moment occupied your mind, both for the 
safety of your command, and the glory and honor of your 
country. 

The commanding General has indeed done you justice. 
His words are few, but at the same time,so just and truth- 
ful, that I beg leave to adopt them. 

" To Brigadier General Wool my obligations are 
" especially due. The high state of discipline and instruc- 
"tion, of several of the volunteer regiments, was attained 
" under his command ; and to his vigilance and arduous 
" service, before the action, and his gallantry and activity 
"on the field, a large share of our success may justly be 
" attributed." 

This is well said, and that too, by the right person, in 
the right spirit, at the right time, and in the right place. 
It is recorded by an eye witness ; by one capable of 
judging ; and its record will exist, when the actors have 
gone to their final account. We cannot but admire the 
noble heart, that has so magnanimously awarded to you 
3 



18 

such signal and well merited praise. — Long, very long, 
may you live, and enjoy this distinction. It is your own. 
— Your courage, self-devotion, and perseverance, have 
purchased it, and the grateful heart of a generous and 
devoted people, will freely award to you, what you have 
so nobly and justly won. 

And now, General, it only remains for me to discharge 
a duty imposed upon me by the Common Council of the 
city of Troy, of bidding you, as I now do, in their name, 
an affectionate and a heartfelt welcome, to the city of 
your adoption. 

The SWOKD was here delivered to His Honor the 
Mayor, by its bearer, the Marshal ; and the Mayor then 
addressed the General as follows : — 

Major General Wool — In behalf, and at the request, of 
the Common Council of the city of Troy, and of my fel- 
low-citizens, and the committee appointed to procure a 
sword ; it becomes my duty, as it certainly is my pleasure, 
to present to you this Sword, as a memorial of their high 
estimation of your merits, both as a citizen and a soldier. 

The circumstances under which it has been procured, 
are highly complimentary to you. The news of the 
advance of a formidable Mexican army, exceeding 20,000, 
under the command and inspired with the enthusiasm of 
their favorite General, against our comparatively small 
force, being less than 5,000, chiefly volunteers, never in 
battle, unskilled and unpractised in the art of war, filled 
our minds with fearful apprehensions, for the safety and 
success of our Army. 

After several days of intense anxiety, the good news 
finally reached us, not only that our invincible Army 
had achieved a brilliant victory over the combined and 
best disciplined Mexican forces, at the ever memorable 
battle of Buena Vista, but that the life of our fellow citi- 
zen, whom we delight to honor, was safe ; and that lie, by 
his valiant conduct, had greatly distinguished himself. 



19 

Our Common Council at a special meeting, called for 
the purpose of testifying their respect for you and your 
valorous conduct, unanimously resolved to procure a 
sword, to be presented as a memorial of their high ap- 
preciation of you, both as an intelligent and much respect- 
ed fellow citizen, and as a brave and gallant soldier, 

Our citizens however, not less anxious to testify their 
respect for you, claimed the privilege of paying for it, 
limiting each subscription to one dollar, that all might 
participate in doing honor to one, who had so signally 
honored and served his country. And be assured General, 
that it is the spontaneous free-will offering of a generous 
and rejoicing people. We are indeed grateful, for your 
valuable services in our country's cause, and we greatly 
rejoice, that a kind Providence has watched over and 
protected your life, through the dangers incident to two 
wars, and has ever given you victory over our enemies. 

Now therefore, in consideration of the high esteem we 
entertain for you, as a worthy, intelligent and much 
respected citizen ; and as a brave and gallant soldier; and 
especially, in consideration of your valiant conduct, at the 
ever memorable battles of Buena Vista, Queenstown Heights 
and Plattsburgh, and those high moral qualities, ever 
exhibited during your eventful campaign in Mexico; which 
enabled you to conquer and take military possession of several 
large cities, and towns without firing a gun, and make friends 
of your enemies by your clemency and humanity; I, in 
behalf of the Common Council, of the city of Troy, and 
of my fellow citizens, do present to you, this beautiful 
SWORD. Of itself, it is indeed a feeble tribute to such 
exalted worth, and such distinguished services. But ac- 
companied as it is, with the grateful heart of a generous 
and rejoicing people — highly appreciating your merits and 
gallant services, — you will please to accept it, and may it 
never ! no never ! ! be drawn, but in the defence of the 
justice, the liberty, the honor, and the glory of our country. 
And when drawn, may it never be sheathed, until the 



20 

justice, the liberty, the honor and glory of our country have 
been justly vindicated. 

After which the sword, which was a splendid and costly 
one, with gold scabbard and appropriate devices, repre- 
senting the military history of the General, was presented 
to him, amid the cheers of the procession. 

The following is the description of the sword. 

An uncommonly rich sword has been manufactured for 
the citizens of Troy, by Ball, Tompkins & Black, to be 
presented to Gen. Wool, in compliment to bis gallantry at 
Buena Yista. — It is a Roman sword, thoroughly classical 
in style, and surpassingly elegant, broad and straight, 
about two feet four inches long, and looks as if made to be 
used by a warrior, rather than to be worn by a carpet- 
knight. The hilt is surmounted with a Roman helmet. 
On its sides are figures of Hercules and Mars. — The wings 
of the American Eagle are outspread beneath the guard, 
and on the guard is the following appropriate inscription: 

" Presented by the Common Council and Citizens of 
Troy, N. Y., to their townsman Brigadier General John 
E. Wool, as a token of their personal esteem and of their 
high appreciation of his gallantry and military ability, as 
displayed on the bloody field of Buena Vista, the 22d and 
23d day of February, 1847." 

The scabbard is richly engraved with battle scenes, 
arms and banners, and other suitable devices, and bears 
the following impressive inscription. 

" Queenstown, Oct. 13, 1812. Plattsburgh, Sept. 11, 
1814. Buena Vista, Feb. 22 and 23, 1817. 

The design was furnished by Brown, the sculptor, and 
its cost could not have been less than $1,000. 

The General was then led to the stand, and although 
deeply affected by the enthusiastic manner in which his 
return had been noticed, and the welcome given him, yet 
he addressed the citizens, military and committees, with 
deep feeling and with great felicity, frequently interrupted 
by the most deafening applause, as follows : 



21 

GEN. WOOL'S REPLY. 
Friends, Fellow- Citizens, and Soldiers: 

On my return from the war in Mexico. I find myself 
in 3'our midst, unexpectedly in a new sphere of action. 
I find myself engaged in the delightful but difficult task 
of responding to those spontaneous outpourings of the 
heart — those cordial and enthusiastic receptions which 
have greeted me, since my arrival in my native State. I 
had anticipated a welcome from my friends ; but such a 
welcome as I received on landing in this city, and such as 
is now indicated in this vast assemblage, I neither antici- 
pated, nor can venture to claim, for mere public services. 
Much of it can only be ascribed to your partiality, to long 
standing associations, to the companions of my youth, and 
the associates of maturer years, whom I recognize before 
me, and whose steadiness of friendship and kindness has 
never failed to cheer and animate me in the darkest hour. 
— Such friendship has been especially dear to me during 
my more than two years' absence ; for, there have been 
times, when, in the full consciousness of directing all the 
energies I possessed to the public good and the honor of 
my country, I found myself in situations when the en- 
couraging voice of friendship was needed to cheer me 
under the heavy responsibilities which I was struggling 
to discharge. In the execution of those duties, I was 
sure to incur the displeasure of the discontented, and of 
those who could not appreciate the necessity of discipline. 
It would not have been difficult to flatter the love of in- 
dulgence and of ease, and to present the column I had 
organized and brought into the field of battle, in the garb, 
without the discipline of soldiers. But those who were at 
first most loud in their complaints, for my refusing to 
listen to that syren voice of popularity which would have 
extricated me, at once, from a labyrinth of unpleasant 
service, were the first in their acknowledgments, when 
convinced bv the trial of a battle, of the mercy I had 
shown them, in the very rigor I exacted to prepare them 
for the contest. 



22 

To you, the Chief Magistrate of this beautiful and enter- 
prising city — my home and residence; and to you, the 
respresentative of the voice of its citizens, I make my 
grateful acknowledgments, for the complimentary manner 
in which you have been pleased to present this splendid 
sword, as the common gift of the city, and of its citizens 
individually. I receive it with a depth of gratitude which 
cannot be expressed by words. It is the testimonial of 
my own neighbors— my countrymen at home. It is the 
symbol of their appreciation of my character as a citizen 
and soldier. Could ambition seek a higher reward ? 
Could pride enjoy a nobler triumph ? I can truly say, 
that I am more than compensated by this magnificent pre- 
sentation and reception — this warm, glowing and heartfelt 
greeting, for all the toil, hardships, and dangers, to which 
I have been exposed since I entered upon the duties that 
called me to Mexico. 

The sword which I have received, I shall hold as the 
dearest gift of my life. — If my country should again need 
my services in the field, and should not this arm become, 
by age, too feeble to raise itself, in vindication of the 
national rights, your confidence, as implied in this gift, 
shall be sustained to the fullest extent of my ability. 

It is not necessary for me to follow the tenor of your 
addresses, by recapitulating the course of my action in the 
two wars to which you have alluded. History has record- 
ed the events of the first. The future historian will 
embody the materials of the last. 

In reference, however, to the battle of Buena Yista, to 
which you have so flatteringly alluded, my services prior 
to and during that engagement, are sufficiently noticed in 
the official language of the commanding General, which 
you have quoted. And I agree with that distinguished 
officer, that "a soldier's share," is all that need be claimed 
in the glories of that memorable conflict. 

Citizen Soldiers : It gives me pleasure to witness, this 
day, the beautiful order, equipment and appointment 



23 

which you have displayed. We are an armed Republic, 
but our arms are in our own hands. We stand ready to 
defend the public Liberty, because it is our own. The 
World is awakened to the fact that a citizen-soldiery con- 
stitutes their own government, the strongest on earth. No 
large standing armies are here necessary. A small 
regular force, and a sufficient number of educated and ex- 
perienced officers, may always be an expedient to give 
example and instruction. 

I thank you, with a soldier's heart, for your attendance 
on this occasion ; and, on your return to your respective 
homes, bear with you, and to your families, my best 
wishes for your prosperity and happiness. 

And now, my friends, townsmen, and fellow-citizens, 
permit me to conclude my part in this interesting drama, 
by renewing to you all, the sincerest expressions of my 
deep and heartfelt gratitude. 

The procession was then reformed, and the General was 
escorted to his quarters in First street, where they were 
dismissed, after six most enthusiastic cheers, answered by 
the General, who feelingly stood upon his steps, bowing, 
and waiving his sword, with the deepest emotion. 

The occasion throughout was one of the most grand and 
imposing ever witnessed in this city, and we have not 
learned that any thing occurred during the day to disturb 
the universal gratification it created. 



STATE SWORD. 



Resolutions, which were unanimously passed by 
the Legislature of New York. 



State of New York, 

In Assembly, April 10, 1848. 

Resolved, (if the Senate concur,) that the thanks of this 
Legislature are due, and are hereby tendered to our dis- 
tinguished fellow citizen, Brigadier General John E. 
Wool, for his valor, skill and judicious conduct, con- 
spicuously displayed in organizing and preparing for the 
service of his Country, with unprecedented rapidity, more 
than twelve thousand volunteers, in the summer of 1816 ; 
in disciplining the column under his command, during a 
rapid march through an enemy's country — disarming that 
enemy by his humane and vigilant observance of their 
rights ; in the courage and good conduct displayed in the 
battle of Buena Vista ; his uniform gallantry and activity 
on the field ; and the ability and success with which he 
has since discharged his arduous and responsible duties. 

Resolved, (if the Senate concur,) that the Governor be, 
and he is hereby requested, to procure a sword, with suit- 
able emblems and devices, and present it to Brigadier 
General Wool, in the name of the People of this, his 
native State, as a testimony of their high appreciation of 
his services. 

4 



26 

Resolved, (if the Senate concur,) that the Governor be, 
and is hereby requested to cause the foregoing resolutions 
to be communicated to Brigadier General Wool, in such 
terms as he may deem best calculated to give effect to the 
purposes thereof. 

By order of the Assembly, 

P. B. Peindle, Clerk. 
State of New York, 

In Senate, April 10, 1848. 
Resolved, That the Senate do concur in the foregoing 
resolutions. 

By order of the Senate, 

A. H. Calhoun, Clerk. 



Civic and Military ceremonies of the Presentation, 
in the City of Albany, N. Y., December 30, 1848. 

This splendid and imposing ceremony took place on 
Saturday last, at the Capitol; and, notwithstanding the 
inclemency of the weather, attracted an immense crowd 
of spectators, who, during the triumphal procession, as 
well as at the time of the presentation, vied with each 
other in giving expression to the unbounded feelings 
of delight and sympathy, with which they regarded this 
acknowledgment by the State Legislature, of the services 
and triumphs, of one of the most illustrious and distin- 
guished heroes of the age. 

TRIUMPHAL PROCESSION. 

About half-past ten on the morning of Saturday, the 
"Troy Citizens' Corps," and the "Troy Artillery," the 
guard of honor for the day, (preceded by the splendid 
military band from the United States Arsenal,) marched 
to the residence of General Wool, in Troy, where they 
were received by him in the usual military form. The gal- 
lant General and his Staff, accompanied by General Cooper 
and his Staff, with a number of distinguished friends, 
then proceeded,in elegant sleighs provided for the occasion, 



27 

to the capital of the State. The whole scene was anima- 
ted and picturesque in the extreme. What with the 
magnificence of the military display — the crowds of 
admiring spectators who lined the road — the spirit-stirring- 
strains of the martial music — the merry jingle of the 
bells, — the whole scene was at once novel, dazzling, and 
exciting in the highest degree. As the gay and gallant 
cortege dashed through the crowded streets of the classic 
city of his adoption, the General and his friends were 
greeted by loud and enthusiastic cheers. In about half 
an hour the cavalcade reached Albany, where it seemed 
as if the whole population had turned out to do honor to 
this illustrious warrior. All along State street, the win- 
dows were crowded with the beauty and fashion of the 
city ; and the feelings of the fair spectators were expressed 
with such enthusiasm, as to recall most vividly to our 
recollection the famous line, 

" None but the brave deserve the fair ! " 
THE PRESENTATION. 

Long before the hour appointed, the Executive Cham- 
ber, where, as it was a State affair, it was intended the 
presentation should take place, was thronged with persons 
eager to examine this spleudid testimonial, which was 
thera exhibited to public inspection. 

THE SWORD. 

The top of the hilt is formed by a liberty cap. On 
one side of the grip, is a figure of liberty, with a mirror 
at her feet, reflecting her image upon Mexico ; on the 
other side, is the same figure, with broken chains lying 
near her. One part of the handle is formed by an eagle, 
with its feet resting on pearls; and the other, by the 
Mexican serpent, with a fine ruby in his head. At the 
junction of these two emblems, is a band of Mexican 
sacrificial stones. At the top of the scabbard are the 
arms of the State on a shield. 



28 

On the scabbard are numerous allegorical devices, rep- 
resenting war and war scenes ; and a lion, the emblem of 
strength and triumph in a good cause. 

In the second division of the obverse of the scabbard, 
are some etchings, admirably executed, mythologically or 
hieroglyphically representing the results of war — a chariot 
of war, followed by birds of prey, and by the angel of 
death ; women and children fleeing before it ; with men 
bearing an infirm parent upon a litter. They approach 
the figure of justice, who hears their complaint ; behind 
the throne, on which justice is seated, a mother, with her 
infant, has sheltered herself; and there also, are stationed 
two officers, ready to obey the commands of justice. 

The reverse of the scabbard bears in the first compart- 
ment, the following inscription : 

PRESENTED TO 

MAX GEN. JOHN E. WOOL, IT. S. A. 

By the State of New York, Dec. 30, 1848 ; 
In commemoration of his vigilant and arduous services 
previous to, and his skill, gallantry and activity, in the 
hard fought Battles at Buexa Vista, 22nd, 23rd, Feb'y, 
1847, as also his distinguished services throughout the 
War with Mexico. 

The second compartment is occupied by an engraving, 
illustrative of the enlistment of the volunteers. A com- 
missary general is furnishing the heroes with clothing, 
equipments, &c. The whole scene is extremely graphic 
and striking. A Western steamboat landing, supplies the 
subject of the next engraving. The volunteers are now 
embarking for the seat of war. The bustling and lively 
character of this scene is admirably conveyed in the 
spirited lines of the artist. The fourth compartment is 
devoted to an illustration of the famous march of the 
American troops through the gorges of the Santa Kosa 
Mountains. In long and brilliant array, the gallant bands 
of the invading army are seen traversing these rugged 



29 

defiles. It was on such a scene that the heroic Colonel 
Hardin looked back, when he exclaimed. — " God bless 
you, my countrymen — what is there to fear from any foe, 
when backed by such a force!" Next appears the camp 
and battle field of " Buena Vista " — now, another name 
for American gallantry and military prowess. The fa- 
mous interview between Taylor and Wool, after the battle, 
is the subject of the next device. Both generals are dis- 
mounted, their chargers held by grooms. 

The last illustration is appropriately devoted to that 
scene, consecrated to the best feelings of our nature, and 
which sheds a lustre even on the horrors of the field of 
•battle — the Mexican women relieving our dying and 
wounded soldiery, while our troops are seen ministering 
to the necessities of the enemy. Those appropriate devices 
are executed in the finest style, and are creditable in the 
highest degree to the accomplished artist who designed 
them. The cost of this suberb weapon is about $2,000. 

In order to accommodate the large concourse of people 
who thronged the broad avenue and the enclosures nearly 
down to the capitol gate, the ceremonial of presentation 
took place in the portico of the capitol. Among the distin- 
guished personages assembled, were His Excellency Gov- 
ernor Young and staff; Gen. Cooper and staff ; Adjutant 
General Stevens ; Lieut McLean, Aid-cle-Camp to Gen. 
Wool ; Hon. M. Fillmore, Vice-President elect of the U. 
S. ; Governor Fish and staff; and a number of officers 
from the U. S. Arsenal at West Troy, &c. 5 &c. 

ADDRESS. 

His Excellency Governor Young addressed General 
Wool as follows : 

Sir: — The Legislature of this State, at the last session, 
— at the instance of one of the most accomplished states- 
man, of his years,* whom it is my pleasure to know — 
adopted a series of resolutions declaring, that the thanks of 

*Hou. A. K. Hadley. 



30 

the Legislature of this state were due, and thereby tendered 
to Major General John E. Wool, of the Army of the 
United States, for his valor, skill and judicious conduct on 
several memorable occasions, particularly named. The 
resolutions also instructed the Governor to present to you, 
in behalf of the people of the State, a sword, to be pro- 
cured for that purpose, with appropriate devices, in testi- 
mony of their high appreciaton of your public services. 

I have felt in common with the people of this State, and 
have participated perhaps as deeply in the public senti- 
ment which has manifested itself in reference to your 
public services, as any person in the community where I 
live. I may not now — the laws of society, while address- 
ing you, will not allow me— to borrow the language of 
eulogy ; but, I trust, I may be permitted to state, that these 
resolutions were not adopted by a small community — by 
the citizens of a single city — by an association of personal 
friends — nor did they come up from any partizan organi- 
zation. They are the expression of the whole people of 
this — your native state. That expression was made, irre- 
spective of religious opinions, professions, or faith. That 
expression was made, irrespective of political distinction, 
or political organization. It is the full and free express- 
ion, allow me to repeat, of the people of this whole State, 
in the form prescribed by the laws and usages of the 
country. This expression, then, must be regarded by 
us — and I trust will not be otherwise regarded by you — as 
second only in significance, to the expression of this great 
Nation, through both houses of the Congress of the United 
States. 

The resolutions to which I refer, and under which we 
now come here, have been restricted in their language to 
your connection with the Mexican war. But it cannot be 
assumed that the people of this State, or the Legislature, 
were forgetful of your eminent services in the late war 
with Great Britain. The people of the State, in common 
with the people of the whole country, have seen Capt. 



31 

Wool at Queenstown, marking his course with his own 
blood. They have seen him planting, and among the 
foremost to plant, a firm step on British soil. They have 
seen his gallantry, judgment, energy and experience, 
displayed as well in the plan of attack, as in the work of 
defence. They have seen Maj. Wool at Plattsburgh, and 
at Beekmantown, gallantly resisting, with, two hundred 
and fifty men, the whole British line, embracing four 
thousand regular troops ; and they have followed you, in 
your arduous and eminent public services, through the 
long interval of peace that succeeded. 

The Legislature has chosen for an expression, a later 
period in your career — the organization and mustering of 
troops — the collection of an army for a long and arduous 
march — the course of discipline which, under your experi- 
enced eye, gave them the efficiency and steadiness, they 
exhibited in the field. All this was first, in the recollection 
and gratitude of the People and Legislature of this State ; 
and I shall not attempt to improve the manner in which 
this expression is conveyed. But the battle of Buena 
Vista was the great point to which the public attention 
was directed. It was as distinguished for its daring and 
intrepidity, as it was momentous and decisive in its results. 
It was the great battle of the Continent, if not of the 
World, and to have participated in any manner in its 
glory, was to share a fame as lasting and enduring as the 
Continent itself. To you, the second in command on that 
glorious field, receiving your orders directly from the 
distinguished Commander-in-chief; the consciousness that 
you discharged your whole duty, with an intrepidity and 
gallantry, that commanded the plaudits of the whole Coun- 
try, and secured to you the marked approbation of that 
commander, whose fame rivals even that of the Father of 
his Country, must of itself, be sufficient to satisfy any, but 
the most extravagant ambition. 

No language that I could employ would present this 
matter in a stronger light, than to say, that you fought 



32 

there — that your services were conspicuous, and effective, 
in the heat of battle and in the preparations for it — and 
that they received the marked approbation of the most 
illustrious General of the Age. In relation to your par- 
ticipation in that and other prominent incidents of the 
Mexican war, it is sufficient to say — whatever may have 
been the origin of the war, whatever influences may have 
operated in producing, or in bringing it to an end — public 
sentiment has, in one respect, been uniform, unvarying. 
There has been a general feeling, a strong desire, an 
irrepressible sentiment — to sustain and fully justify, as 
well as reward, the services of our brave men in Mexico ; 
and from the conviction, equally general and strong, that 
the brilliant achievements of this war have done much to 
elevate our national character, and command for us respect 
abroad, and inspire confidence at home. 

I now, in conformity with the resolutions of the Legis- 
lature, present to you the sword procured for this purpose, 
in the name of the People of this State, and in testimony 
of their high appreciation of your services to }^our Country, 
and of the honor thus reflected upon your native State. 

Gen. Wool, evidently affected by the scene and the 
occasion, replied as follows: 

REPLY OF MAJ. GEN. WOOL TO GOVERNOR YOUNG. 

Sir: — When a soldier returns from a long and perilous 
campaign to his home and his fireside, there is, there can 
be, no solace so grateful to his feelings as the approbation 
of his fellow citizens. That approbation has been mani- 
fested by various modes by different nations. The Jews 
received the successful soldier, returning from the field of 
battle, with trump and timbrel, and raised the choral 
brum of praise ; the Romans, with the decorative wreaths 
of oak and laurel, with ovations, and with the magnifi- 
cent triumphal procession ; the English, with promotions, 
medals, peerages and pensions ; while the more practical 
Americans, have preferred to manifest their sense of mili- 
tary merit, by bestowing, generally, swords upon such as 



33 

they believe would wear them with honor, and sheath 
them ' without disgrace.' 

In this manner, with other demonstrations, my neigh- 
bors and fellow citizens of a city in this vicinhvy, where I 
have long had my home, manifested their sense of my 
services, on my return from Mexico. Perhaps, within the 
limited sphere of that city, some personal partialities, 
some feelings of private friendship, might have had an 
influence on popular sentiment. It was, however, the 
home greeting, and you, Sir, can readily imagine what 
were my feelings. 

But the unanimous approbation of the great State of 
New York, as indicated by the votes of its Legislature — 
a State of which I am proud to say I am a native, and 
which has ever been my home — in defence of whose 
frontier I first shed my youthful blood — I confess has 
filled me with emotions, which, although they open all the 
genial currents of the heart, sometimes paralyze the tongue, 
when it would utter the voice of gratitude. I can, there- 
fore, only say, that the approbation of my native State, 
expressed twice, during my absence in Mexico, through 
the representatives of the people, is an honor for which I 
entertain the most profound appreciation. The resolu. 
tions first passed by the Legislature, were received soon 
after the bloody battle of Buena Vista, where so many 
gallant spirits fell in defence of their country. It was a 
proud moment to learn that my own State had given me 
its confidence in advance, and before the news of that 
battle had reached its Capital. It was the first voice from 
my country that had reached me in that wild and lonely 
valley, after the surrounding mountains had echoed the 
thunder of the battle. It more than compensated for all 
the hardships and perils I had endured. It was indeed, a 
proud, but melancholy moment — a moment of mingled 
pleasure and sadness. — For many who went with me had 
fallen to rise no more. 
5 



34 

Of my services, to which your Excellency has so flat- 
teringly alluded, commencing with the battle of Queens- 
town, my first essay in arms, and terminating with the 
campaign in Mexico, it becomes not me to speak. For 
those in the war of 1812, I must refer to history, and for 
those more recent — to which allusion has been made in 
the resolutions of the Legislature, as well as in your Ex- 
cellency's address — to the reports of the commanding 
General, and the evidence of those who witnessed my 
efforts to promote the honor and interest of my country. 
If in a long military career, whether in peace or war, I 
have been so fortunate in the discharge of the various 
and responsible duties confided to me, as to command the 
approbation of my countrymen, and especially of my 
native State, my ambition is more than satisfied. 

It may not, however, have escaped notice, that censures 
loud and deep, were lavished. on me, in consequence of the 
rigorous, — denominated by some, tyranical, — discipline, 
which I enforced upon the volunteers of my command, 
whose achievements on the field of battle have spread 
their renown throughout the land. Those who have 
never experienced the trials and hardships, to which the 
soldier is exposed in a foreign war, can have little idea of 
their magnitude. To the inexperienced, the difficulties 
appear insurmountable ; to the undisciplined, they are in- 
supportable. Toil and. privation are inevitable. The 
country invaded must be explored, roads and bridges 
made, rivers crossed, ravines filled, hills levelled, and 
supplies for men and animals procured. 

If my soldiers endured hardships, I shared them; but 
they had no share in my responsibilities. If my discipline 
appeared harsh, or unnecessarily rigorous, it became so 
from stern necessity. We were in the heart of the ene- 
my's country, beyond the reach of supplies from the 
United States. I could not forsee the amount of force 
which might be brought against us, and constant vigilance 
was requisite ; as the slightest relaxation of discipline 



35 

might have been followed by the most fatal consequences, 
and the very existence of my column put at hazard ; for at 
that early day it was reported that General Santa Anna was 
concentrating, organizing and disciplining a large army to 
drive us, as he asserted, beyond the Rio Grande if not 
the Sabine. Depending, in a great measure, upon the 
people of the country for supplies, it was essential that 
their good will should be secured. This could only be 
done by convincing them, that no wrong or injustice was 
intended. Of this they became convinced, and such 
supplies as I required and they could obtain, were liberal- 
ly furnished. To establish this state of things, and in 
order to preserve the honor of my country, and myself 
and column from disgrace, severe measures and strict ad- 
herence to the rules of discipline, became necessary. 

I am, however, proud to say, that in the course of that 
march of 900 miles, not a drop of human blood was shed, 
and no injury inflicted upon the inhabitants of the coun- 
try. It affords me also, great pleasure to say, that many 
who complained of my severity, have since publicly ex- 
pressed their gratitude for that discipline, which they 
frankly acknowledged, saved the honor of the American 
name, and their own lives and honor, in one of the blood- 
iest battles ever fought on this continent, and between the 
races which now hold dominion over North America. It 
commenced on the birth-day of the Father of his Country ; 
and on the following day the Saxon Norman race, — amidst 
the direst perils that ever surrounded soldiers, principally 
volunteers, and in all scarcely numbering 4,600 men, 
under the command of the illustrious General Taylor, — 
drove more than 20,000 Mexicans, led on by Santa Anna, 
the great civil and military chieftain of Mexico, with dis- 
grace from the fields of Buena Vista. A glorious victory, 
but purchased too clearly, for much precious blood was 
sacrificed. Yet it was not sacrificed in vain, and posterity 
will reap the benefit, by emulating the heroic deeds of 
those who fell on those fields. If the battle had termina- 
ed otherwise, and the pass of Angostura had been forced 



36 

by the Mexicans, the valley, from Buena Vista to the Eio 
Grande, would have been saturated with American blood. 
Death would have numbered its victims by thousands, 
instead of hundreds. 

I accept this splendid Sword, this precious gift which 
you, Sir, as the organ and Chief Magistrate of the State, 
have tendered to me in the name of the People, as a token 
of their estimation of my services, with feelings which 
you can appreciate, but which I cannot express. I trust 
it will only be drawn in defence of my country and never 
sheathed, but with honor. 

To your Excellency, for the flattering and complimen- 
tary manner, in which you have been pleased to present 
it, I tender my grateful acknowledgments. 

Citizen soldiers — for the honor you have conferred on 
me this day, and the interest you have manifested on this 
occasion, please to accept my sincere and hearty thanks. 
Your fine appearance and martial bearing, bespeak your 
discipline and instruction. A government supported by 
a citizen soldiery must be the strongest in the world. As 
long as you can appear, as on this occasion, and at similar 
public assemblages, with arms in your hands, the republic 
will be safe. But if the time should arrive, when the 
people shall be prohibited the right of keeping and bear- 
ing arms, the freedom which we so highly prize, will have 
departed. Let us cherish then this invaluable privilege — 
this great conservative feature of our free institutions — 
which, while it banishes the necessity of large standing 
armies, renders the Republic invincible. 

When the gallant General had closed his modest and 
eloquent reply, the manifestations of applause were loud 
and long continued. An elegant dejeuner was then served 
to the guests and their friends, at Congress Hall. After 
partaking of the good things there provided, the proces- 
sion returned to Troy in the same order in which it had 
arrived at the capital ; and thus ended the ceremonials of 
one of the most interesting occasions, commemorative of 
the recent glorious war in Mexico. 



NATIONAL SWORD. 



Joint Resolution of Congress. 



Resolved by the Senate and Bouse of Representatives of the 
United States of America in Congress assembled, That the 
thanks of Congress are due, and are hereby tendered, to 
Brevet Major-General John E. Wool, for his distinguish- 
ed services in the late war with Mexico ; and especially 
for the skill, enterprise, and courage which distinguished 
his conduct at the battle of Buena Vista. 

Resolved, That the President be requested to cause a 
sword, with suitable devices, to be presented to General 
Wool, as a testimony of the high sense entertained by 
Congress of his gallant and judicious conduct on that 
memorable occasion. 

Resolved, That the President be requested to cause a 
copy of the foregoing resolutions to be transmitted to 
General Wool. 

Approved January 24, 1854. 



38 



Correspondence relating to the Presentation of 
the Sword. Comments of the press ; and Testi- 
monials FROM OFFICERS ATTACHED TO GENERAL WOOL'S 
COMMAND. 



PRESIDENT S LETTER. 

Executive Department, 

September 17th, 1855. 
Sir: 

I transmit herewith a copy of a joint resolution, 
passed January 24th, 1854, tendering to you the thanks 
of Congress for your distinguished services in the late war 
with Mexico. 

By one of the clauses of the resolution, the President is 
requested to cause a sword, with suitable devices, to be 
presented to you, as a testimony of the high sense enter- 
tained by Congress of your gallant and judicious conduct 
at the battle of Buena Vista. 

Desirous of giving full effect to the intentions of 
Congress, the designs for the sword and its fabrication 
have been entrusted to artists of approved taste and skill, 
and its preparation has necessarily been a work of time. 
But it has been recently completed, and }^ou will receive 
it at an early day through the War Department. 

I perform a grateful task in thus conveying to you, this 
token of your country's approbation. 
Very respectfully, 

Your ob't serv't, 

Franklin Pierce. 

Brevet Major General John E. Wool, 

U. S. Army. 



39 

ADJUTANT GENERAL'S LETTER. 

Washington, November 26, 1855. 
Dear General : Since the President's letter to you in 
September last, efforts have been made to transmit to your 
Head Quarters, the sword voted to you by Congress. No 
such opportunity, however, has yet presented itself; and 
in view of the risk which would be incurred, and the 
liability to loss of so valuable a donation on so long a 
route, it has been thought, that you might prefer to give 
it a different direction. If such should be your wish, on 
being notified of the fact, I will take pleasure in com- 
municating it to the Department. Probably the safest 
course would be to entrust it to one of the express lines. 
If sent by an officer, he would have his own baggage to 
attend to, and the risk might therefore be greater. 
Very respectfully, and 

Sincerely yours, 

S. Cooper, 
Major General A. G. 

John E. Wool, U. S. A. 

Comd'g Dept. of the Pacific, 

Benicia, Cal. 



GENERAL WOOL'S REPLY. 
Benicia, Head Quarters, Pacific Dept., 

San Francisco, 19th January, 1856. 
Colonel: The morning I left Vancouver, the 11th 
instant, for m} r Head-quarters,. I received your communi- 
cation of the 26th November, 1855, relating to the pre- 
sentation of the sword voted to me "unanimously" by the 
last Congress. Your letter seems to bear the impress of 
authority, yet, I presume it is intended to be private in 
its character. Whether, or not, I am correct in my con- 
jectures, I can present no other reply, than to refer you to 
the resolutions of Congress, which are in these words, viz : 



40 

" January 3rd, 1854." 

:t Resolved by the Senate and House of Representatives of 
11 the United States of America in Congress assembled, That 
"the thanks of Congress are due, and are hereby tender- 
" ed, to Brevet Major General John E. Wool, for his 
" distinguished services in the late war with Mexico ; and 
" especially for the skill, enterprise, and courage which 
" distinguished his conduct at the battle of Buena Vista. 

" Resolved, That the President be requested to cause a 
" sword, with suitable devices, to be presented to General 
u Wool, as a testimonial of the high sense entertained by 
"Congress of his gallant and judicious conduct on that 
" memorable occasion. 

" Resolved, That the President be requested to cause a 
" copy of the foregoing resolutions to be transmitted to 
" General Wool." 

With these resolutions before me, I should deem it 
highly improper for me to dictate in any manner whatever 
to the President, the way, or mode, the sword should be 
presented. 

I am very respectfully, 

Your ob't serv't, 

John E. Wool, 

Colonel S. Cooper, Major General 

Adjutant General, Washington. 

It appears from a letter of the Hon. Jefferson Davis 
to the Editor of the Jackson Mississippian, dated August 
14th, 1857, that General Wool's suspicions, as above ex- 
pressed, were well founded; and that the private letter of 
the Adjutant General of the Army, was written at the 
dictation of the War Department. 









41 

SECRETARY OF WAR'S LETTER. 

War Department, 
Washington, May 30, 1857. 
Sir: On coming into the War Department, I find a 
sword, which has been prepared for you under a joint 
resolution of Congress, as a high testimonial of the great 
services you have rendered your country, particularly up- 
on the ever glorious battle-field of Buena Vista. To a 
gallant soldier, no higher evidence of public approbation 
can be awarded. The resolution, itself, has heretofore been 
transmitted to you by the proper authority, and it now 
gives me great pleasure to embrace the first opportunity 
to forward you the sword itself, which I do by a special 
messenger. 

I have the honor to be, General, 
With high consideration, 

Your very ob't serv't, 
John B. Floyd, Secretary of War. 

Maj. Gen. John E. Wool, Troy, N. Y. 



The following is the origin and description of the design 
of the sword : 

The Ordnance Department were called upon by the 
Secretary of War, the Hon. Jefferson Davis, to furnish 
a design for a sword, which Congress proposed to present 
General Wool, for his services at the battle of Buena 
Vista, and Colonel Craig devolved the duty on Captain 
James G. Benton, of that Corps, who prepared several 
designs, one of which was adopted, with a slight altera- 
tion. 

The idea was to prepare a sword which should not be 
altogether unserviceable, or which could be worn, if 
necessary, and, at the same time, to be ornamented with 
appropriate devices. 
6 



42 

The ear of corn composing the hilt has no particular 
significance, further than it was thought to be unique and 
national. The eagle and shield, which surmount it, are 
national emblems, and the name Buena Yista is written 
on the shield, to convey an idea of the importance of that 
victory, in a national point of view. The rattlesnake and 
cactus, which form the guard, are emblems of the Mexi- 
can nationality. The bands, to which the rings of the 
scabbard are fastened, are formed of laurel leaves, em- 
blematic of the glory won by the General on the occasion; 
and the stars which adorn the lips are expressive of the 
brevet rank given him for his distinguished services. 

Congress appropriated $1,500 for this sword. 



GENERAL WOOL S REPLY. 

Head- Quarters, Dept. of the East, 

Troy, N. Y., 6th June, 1857. 
To the Hon. John B. Floyd, Secretary of War. 

Sir: I had the honor to receive by a special messenger 
— Capt. H. L. Shields — }^our communication of the 30th 
ult., with the sword which the Congress of the United 
States, January, 1854, unanimously requested the Presi- 
dent to have made and presented to me as a testimony of 
the high sense entertained by its members of my conduct 
in the memorable battle of Buena Vista. 

The very gratifying and acceptable manner in which, 
you have been pleased to cany out the unanimous request 
of Congress, more than compensated for the failure to do 
so, by you or in the War Department, to whom, 

it would seem by the let, er of the late President, this ser- 
vice was i inber, 1855. 

beautiful token, with the thanks of Congress, 

pressive of the high approbation of my countrymen, 

lor th L on the ' gloriou field of Buena 

. i,' i shall i I el profoundly grateful. Be assured 



43 

that it will only be drawn in defence of our common 
country, and I trust never sheathed but with honor. 

With considerations of the highest respect, I have the 
honor to be, 

Your obedient servant, 

John E. "Wool. 

The Journal of Commerce, commenting upon this corres- 
pondence, thus recapitulates the public services to which 
it specially alludes : 

Ten years have elapsed since the memorable battle of 
Buena Vista, to which the resolutions of Congress refer. 
It was a terrific engagement of two days, the most unequal 
perhaps that ever was fought on this continent between 
two organized armies; in which four to five thousand only 
of Americans, principally volunteers, under General Tay- 
lor as first, and Gen. Wool as second in command, over- 
whelmed and put to flight, more than 20,000 troops under 
Santa Anna, aided by twenty generals, and embracing 
the very flower of the Mexican force and the best army 
Mexico ever raised. To those of our readers who are not 
familiar with the noble part Gren. Wool bore in the con- 
duct of that battle, and the " large share" of its success 
which, in the language of Gren. Taylor, is "justly due" to 
him, it may not be inappropriate on the present occasion 
to revive a few facts from contemporaneous authorities, 
for which we are principally indebted to the Democratic 
Review of November, 1851. 

General Taylor, in his first report of the battle of 
Buena Vista, says, February 24, 1847 : 

I may be permitted here, however, to acknowledge my 
great obligations to Brigadier-General Wool, the second 
in command, to whom I feel particularly indebted for his 
services on this occasion. 

Again, in General Taylor's detailed account of the 
battle, dated March 6, 1847 he says : 

To Brigadier-General Wool my obligations are especial- 
ly due. The high state of discipline and instruction of 



44 

several of the volunteer regiments was attained under his 
command ; and to his vigilance and arduous services be- 
fore the action, and his gallantry and activity on the field, 
a large share of our success is justly to be attributed. I 
beg leave to recommend him to the favorable notice of the 
government. 

The following is an extract from the account given of 
the battle by Major Coffee, one of Gen. Taylor's staff; 

General Wool led the main body in person, and was 
seen everywhere rallying and encouraging the volunteers. 
The details of the battle were confided to General Wool, 
who nobly justified the confidence of his commander and 
brother veteran, by the most active, zealous, efficient, and 
gallant conduct. Throughout the whole action, he was 
constantly engaged in the disposition of our forces, and in 
rallying them to the onset. It is a miracle that he escaped 
the thick flying balls which thinned the ranks he was 
marshalling. There was but one complaint made against 
him, and that was, that he exposed himself too much. 



TESTIMONIALS FEOM OFFICEES. 

GENERAL LANE'S LETTER. 

Buena Yista, Mexico, May 20, 1847. 

Dear General : In a few days we are to take up the 
line of march homewards and from my understanding of 
the law, I am soon to be discharged, and I greatly hope 
that the cause that gave rise to my appointment may soon 
cease to exist. A speedy and honorable peace with this 
country is much desired by every American citizen. 

But, my dear General, I cannot think of parting with 
you without expressing my high opinion of your great 
worth as a military man. During the whole time that I 
have been under your command, I have found you prompt, 
faithful and vigilant in the discharge of your duty ; look- 
ing alone to the good of the service, and the honor and 
glory of you i country. 



45 

A strict disciplinarian, you have discharged your duty 
with, ability, and an impartiality worthy a great man. 
Your exertion, as second in command, at the great and 
glorious battle of Buena Yista, moving to and fro in any 
part of the field, watching the movements of the enemy, 
exposed to danger almost every moment of the day, order- 
ing and disposing of our forces in the best manner, to 
meet and repulse the enemy — by your exertions, coolness 
and courage in gaining this victory, you have won laurels 
and a fame, that will endure as long as the traces cf Ameri- 
can history shall exist. 

Hoping that you may live long to enjoy the thanks of a 
great people, I remain, sir, 

Your most obedient and humble servant 

Joseph Lane, Brig. Gen. 



The Illinois Yolunteers wrote to General Wool, as 

follows : 

Brazos Santiago, June 23, 1847. 

Brigadier General Wool : The officers and soldiers of 
the first regiment Illinois volunteers, on the eve of leav- 
ing Mexico for their homes, would do violence to their 
feelings did they not tender to their immediate command- 
ing general a testimonial of their regard. Upon entering 
the service a year since, they were not prepared to ap- 
preciate the importance of discipline and drill, and conse- 
quently complained of them as onerous and unnecessary 
— complaints were loud and many. 

Their judgment convinced, these feelings have under- 
gone a change, and they now thauk you for your untiring- 
exertions to make them useful to their country and a 
credit to the state. 

Whatever, sir, of service, we may have done our com- 
mon country, or whatever of honor we may have done 
the state of Illinois, to General J. E. Wool is due the 
credit. You, sir, brought your column into the field well 



46 

provided for and disciplined, and fought them well when 
you got them there ; and should our country ever again 
need our services in the field, it would be our proudest 
wish to again meet the enemy under the command of one 
in whose energy, watchfulness and courage, we and the 
whole army, have the most unlimited confidence. 

With the best wishes for your future fame and happi- 
ness, on the part of the regiment, we beg leave to sub- 
scribe ourselves your friends, 

W. Weatherford, Col. 1st Eeg. 111. Vol. 

W. B. Warren, Lieutenant Colonel, 

And forty company and staff officers. 



In relation to General Wool's conduct in the battle of 
Buena Vista, Lieutenant Colonel J. S. Koane, of the Ark- 
ansas Volunteer Cavalry, says in his report : 

On the morning of the 23d, the position of my command 
was designated by our gallant General himself, to whose 
cool and heroic courage, military judgment and command- 
ing genius, I would add my humble testimony. 

Major A. F. Morrison, of the Illinois' volunteers, in 
a letter to his Excellency Governor Whitcomb, relating 
to the battle of Buena Vista, says that — 

General Wool was next in command, and most diligent- 
ly and valiantty, attended to every department of the 
engagement. He is a brave and competent officer, and 
merits the gratitude of his countrymen for his services on 
this great occasion. 

Captain Pike, a friend of General Taylor, in his 
sketch of the battle, says : 

General Wool has gained great credit. He made all 
the dispositions for the battle. He was cool, calm and 
composed, and exhibited the most quiet and unpretending 
bravery. 



47 

Carleton, in his work on the battle of Buena Vista, 
says: 

Wherever the fury of the battle was greatest, there 
was General AVool, riding from point to point, encoura- 
ging and stimulating the men to still greater exertions. 

Colonel Jefferson Davis, late Secretary of War, in 
acknowledging the receipt of a letter addressed to General 
Gibson, relating to General Taylor, from General Wool, 
wrote to the latter as follows : 

Saltillo, 25th March, 1847. 

My dear General : I have just read with, great pleasure 
the copy of your letter to Gen. Gibson, which you did me 
the honor to send me this morning. 

It shall be preserved for the use permitted, and be 
assured, under circumstances requiring, that it will give 
me great pleasure thus to apply it. 

In these times of petty jealousy and ignoble strife for 
public approbation, it is quite refreshing to see one so 
prominent in the scenes you describe, forgetting himself 
to sustain and commend his commander. 

With assurances of my regard, 
I am cordially yours, 

Jefferson Davis. 



colonel bissell s letter. 
Saltillo , Mexico. 

June 15, 1847. 
Geivl John E. Wool. 

Dear Sir: My term of service having nearly expired, 
I am about to start, as you are aware, for home. Before 
doing so, however, I desire to convey to you an assurance 
of the very high estimation in which you are held, as a 
man and an officer, not by myself alone, but by the offi- 
cers and men, generally, of the second Regiment of Il- 
linois Volunteers. 



48 

"Whatever little dissatisfaction may have existed among 
the men of that regiment early in our compaign, in conse- 
quence of what was deemed your severe and rigid dis- 
cipline, had its origin in ignorance on their part of what 
was really necessary to qualify men to act the part of 
soldiers, when in the face of an enemy and under an 
enemy's fire. 

The battle of Buena Vista, in which you so signally 
distinguished yourself, has undeceived them ; and there 
is, probably not one among them now who does not ap- 
prove your entire conduct. And their anxiety to do you 
full justice now, is manifested in every possible way, in 
which they can give expression to such a desire. They 
are satisfied with their own achievements on that bloody 
field, and they fully realize that to your patient and per- 
severing efforts to make them soldiers, are they indebted 
for that success which finally crowned their efforts. They 
witnessed and appreciated your conduct on that occasion. 
They saw you wherever duty required your presence 
throughout the day, without regard to danger or personal 
consequences ; and they are proud to claim } r ou as their 
commander. In saying this I but do them justice. 

It is unnecessary to add that my own views and feel- 
ings fully accord with theirs. Indeed, I feel myself 
peculiarly fortunate in having been, from the first, under 
your immediate command. Your watchfulness, diligence, 
sleepless industry and patient attention to the wants and 
requirements of your command, had prepared me, early, 
to expect that from you, on the battle-field, which so 
proudly signalized your conduct at Buena Vista. Your 
selection of that ground as the trial-field — your sagacity, 
promptness and energy on the day of battle were precise- 
ly what your previous conduct had prepared us to expect. 

May the country long enjoy your services, and ever 
realize them as we, who are here with you, ever will. 
Very truly your friend, 
and ob't ser't, 

Wm. H. Bissell. 



49 

COLONEL CURTIS' LETTER. 

State of Coahuila, Mexico, 

Head Quarters, Saltillo, 

June 23rd, 1847. 
Brig'r General John E. Wool. 

Sir: Since you mustered me into the service at Cincin- 
nati, the term for which I volunteered has fully expired. 
The foe, which last week was advancing against you, has 
recoiled before meeting the firm resistance you had 
promptly prepared for him ; and he is again retreating in 
terror before you. 

There being no present prospect of battle here, and no 
sufficient force to follow in pursuit, I regard it as a favor- 
able time for me to retire from duty and ask a discharge 
from the service of the United States. 

On leaving the service, allow me General to thank 
you for the kind reception and attention you gave 
to the Ohio Volunteers, and the distinguished confidence 
and numerous acts of kindness you have shown me. The 
toil, privations, and dangers of war are associated with 
some agreeable reminiscences, and 1 shall always look 
back with pride and pleasure on the humble services I 
have performed, under a General qualified for the highest 
station, since he has shown himself, on all occasions, dis- 
tinguished for coolness, courage, and caution ; three at- 
tributes rarely combined, but cardinal points in a military 
commander. 

Hoping that you may long continue to add brillianej?" 
to your own fame, and glory to your country ; I wish 
you continued health, and a safe and early return to your 
friends and family. 

Very respectfully, 

Your ob't ser't, 

Samuel E. Curtis, 

Col. 3d Eeg't 0. V. 

Commanding Saltillo. 

7 



50 

BRIGADIER GENERAL CUSHING's LETTER. 

Buena Vista, Aug. 20th, 1847. 

General: I have received with most grateful emotions 
your letter of this date. 

I shall never cease to esteem it as one of the most for- 
tunate incidents of ray life to have been placed, though 
but for so short a period of time, under your command, 
and in such relation to it, as to afford me the means of ob- 
serving, and learning to follow, the rules of discipline and 
principles of military administration, which direct your 
conduct as the chief of an army. As a school of instruc- 
tion in one of the highest departments of human knowl- 
edge, it has been of inappreciable value to me. And the 
careful study of the orders governing your long and suc- 
cessful march from La Vaca, while it has added to the ex- 
alted respect I previously entertained for your military 
character, and to my admiration of that most ably conduc- 
ted expedition, has laid before me a model of its class. 
I cannot aspire to any such pre-eminent honor as you have 
won on the glorious field of Buena Vista, and which noth- 
ing but the combination of high capacity, with long expe- 
rience in every branch of military art, could have enabled 
you to achieve ; but, if I continue in the service, I will at 
least endeavor to show you, that your instructions were 
not thrown away on a barren soil. And, in whatever fu- 
ture vicissitudes of fortune, I beg to assure you that you 
will never fail to find in me an attached and grateful 
friend. 

I am 
With great respect, 

Your ob't ser't 

C. Gushing. 
Gen. Wool. 



51 



EXTRACT FROM A LETTER OF THE HON". DANIEL WEBSTER 
TO GENERAL WOOL : 

Washington, April 7th, 1847. 
My Dear Gen'l; 

Your conduct, and success, at the ever 
memorable battle of Buena Yista have filled your friends 
with joy and gladness. They knew that nothing was 
wanting, in order for your distinguishing yourself greatly, 
but an opportunity; and happily that opportunity ea> no. 
All the letters from the Army, as well as Gen'l Taylor's 
despatch, do you ample justice. I have not heard a dis- 
senting voice. Persons have been here, also, who were in 
the field, and who speak of your gallantry and good con- 
duct, in the highest terms. It is understood that the ar- 
rangements of the details of the battle were left to you, 
and that it was executed with singular skill and judg- 
ment. 

I hope you believe, My Dear General, that none of your 
friends enjoy greater pleasure than myself in seeing you 
wearing new laurels. Few have known you longer, and 

none regard you more. 

# * * ■* * 

I am, Dear Gen'l, yours truly, 

Dan'l Webster. 



iiPi. 



